The cycle lane between Paarden Eiland and Woodstock along the Woodstock non-motorised transport corridor has been closed due to repeated vandalism and cable theft.

The City of Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate has advised that the cycle line – from Old Marine Drive to Paarden Eiland Drive – will be closed until further notice as it is currently unsafe for use.

The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility Rob Quintas says it is regrettable as many cyclists use this corridor while commuting to and from the Woodstock and City Bowl areas.

“I recently conducted a site visit, together with City officials from other line departments, to see the extent of the damage done. I was shocked to see the damage to the lane, partly due to vandalism, and otherwise because of continuous cable theft.”

Quintas says the cycle lane has been damaged to a point where it is no longer safe for cyclists to use it.

“City teams will, during the temporary closure, conduct a full assessment of the damage, and plan for repair work. We regret the inconvenience but must prioritise safety. I strongly advise the public not to make use of this corridor until further notice. Cyclists have the option of taking their bicycle onto the bus and making use of the MyCiTi service between Paarden Eiland and the Civic Centre stations while the closure is in effect.”

He says road signs will be installed at various locations along the route informing cyclists of the cycle lane closure.

The City will start repairing the footways impacted by cable theft and vandalism by closing open trenches and holes dug to make the facility functional for cyclists again.

Transnet has also committed to begin the process of removing illegal occupants in the area.